Epag Us Government Exchange Program Alumni Association Of Georgia

US Government Exchange Program Alumni Association of Georgia (EPAG) is a non governmental, noncommercial entity uniting alumni of 25 US Government-funded exchange programs. EPAG currently boasts about 1000 registered members. The major asset of the Association lies on its members and intellectual resources. EPAG was originally established as the Muskie Alumni Association of Georgia (MAAG) in 2004. MAAG brought together Edmund Muskie Graduate Fellowship Program alumni representing a diverse spectrum of professional fields. Its projects focus on strengthening of the local and international networks, supporting civil society and educational establishments, and promoting volunteerism. In 2013, to increase sustainability of the association, boost its capacity and increase its impact, the MAAG Board made a strategic decision to expand membership and open the doors to alumni from all other US Government- funded programs. To reflect this pivotal change, the Association altered its Statutes and changed its name to EPAG. EPAG is a member of the European Network of American Alumni Associations (ENAM). The main goal of the Association is to build a professional network of likeminded, western educated professionals. In addition, EPAG provides a forum for intellectual collaboration and social interaction, enhanced employment and consultancy opportunities, optimized opportunities for donor funding through joint projects, and facilitated access to decision makers for advocacy purposes. The mission of EPAG is to engage in a variety of activities that contribute to sustaining an active civil society in the country by sharing experience, consultancy, research, development, advocacy, and promoting community based initiatives.